With the  Easter holidays in full swing and the weather beaming gloriously, families are flocking to seaside locations for idyllic getaways. While Greater Manchester may lack a beach, a treasure trove of coastal gems awaits nearby, from the charms of Llandudno in North Wales to the sands of Formby Beach in Lancashire.

For those seeking the quintessence of seafront fun, forget Blackpool; your destination should be Lytham St Annes. Straddling two distinct areas—Lytham and its neighbour, St Annes—this Lancashire coastline offers a tranquil alternative to Blackpool's bustling promenade. In stark contrast to clamorous arcades and soaring rollercoasters, Lytham St Annes prides itself on its serene vibes, featuring a picturesque Victorian pier, expansive sandy stretches, and quaint pastel beach huts.

Adding to the allure, it's the proud location of one of the UK's top-rated fish and chip shops by The Times.

Off the beaten path, The Haven is an unassuming gastronomic jewel, boasting a charmingly retro setting. Emma Gill, Parenting Editor for Manchester Evening News, recently savoured their offerings and hailed the fish and chips as "perfectly cooked, with crispy batter and soft, flaky cod."

St Anne's beach has once more put the town under the national spotlight. Having been named among "the best beaches in England" last year, it garnered a Seaside Award from Keep Britain Tidy due to its immaculate stretch of golden sands, ideal for springtime strolls and sandcastle fun.

The majestic 600ft Victorian Pier is a jewel of the coastline, dating back to 1885. It boasts delightful amusements, a café, and the promise of ice cream while offering stunning panoramic views at its tip.

For those seeking a quintessential British seaside day, iconic beach huts are available for hire. These charming huts include modern amenities such as electricity, kitchen space, and seating, accommodating groups of up to six starting at £135 per day.

Families with youngsters should not miss the Lytham St Anne's Splash park, open daily from April through September. 

This aquatic playground caters to children aged three to 12 with a plethora of water features and paddling areas, all for just £2 per hour-long session.

Beachgoers should note that dogs are not permitted on the beach from Good Friday until September 30, between the lifeboat slipway and the North Promenade car park slipway.

Parking at Lytham St Annes offers several options, including the beachside North Promenade (FY8 2NQ) and Fairhaven Road (FY8 1NW), with prices starting from £1.30 for an hour and rising to £4.60 for more than four hours.